Bacalar, also known as the lake of seven colours, is one of the six magical towns in the Yucatan Peninsula. The lake is located in the state of Quintana Roo and is surrounded by dense jungle, cabins, a large variety of animals and an unparalleled atmosphere of calm.
The original name of Bacalar dates from pre-Hispanic times, Siyan Ka’an Bakjalal. Siyan Ka’an translates as where the sky is born, while Bakjalal is said to mean close to, or surrounded by reeds.
Its multicoloured water makes the lake the perfect spot to enjoy some swimming, snorkelling, kayaking or diving. But don’t worry if water sports are not your thing as you can enjoy the magical scenery on a boat ride and then return to land and enjoy all the other attractions this magical town has to offer you. Bacalar is perfect for a long holiday or a weekend break.
If you’re a culture lover, you can visit the Fortress of San Felipe and the Pirate Museum, where you’ll learn all about the history of the fortress, and the views of the lake are spectacular.
In the evening or at night you can stroll around the streets close to the main square and visit the San Joaquin Church which has recently been restored.
The lake, which is the big tourist draw in Bacalar, is more than 50km long and about 2km at its widest. Variation in the depth of the water, the concentration of minerals and the strength of the sun rays give Lake Bacalar its striking seven colours that make for an incredible visual spectacle.
The emblematic Blue Cenote is just a few kilometres south of the town and about 30km northwest of Chetumal. This round, well-type cenote is more than 300m in diameter and 90m deep, basically, it’s a large natural pool that’s popular with swimmers, snorkelers and divers.
Just like all the towns in villages in Quintana Roo, you can enjoy exquisite cuisine in Bacalar, which is influenced by Yucatan and Belizean cuisine. There are some truly unique and authentic dishes that you should try, including rice an beans, which is cooked in coconut oil, xpelón tamales, sotobichay or “brazo de reina” (queen’s arm), both of which are tamales prepared with chaya, stew and chocolomo. And of course, there are plenty of dishes that come from the sea with octopus and lobster featuring strongly on the menu.
This magical town is a place that speaks for itself, and you’ll never tire of looking at the striking blue colours of the lake or learning about the local customs. Enjoy Bacalar!
